New pet store to satisfy animal’s appetite in Newton

A new pet store specializing in natural foods, interactive toys and more is set to open its doors Dec. 6 in Newton.

Co-owners of EarthWise Pet, Zach and Jenny Jensen, purchased a franchise from the company and wanted to bring it to town to offer residents the chance to buy their food without having to drive to Des Moines. The Jensen’s love for pets helps, too.

“I saw the need here for it and I want to keep people in Newton buying their pet food,” Zach Jensen said.

The process to get the franchise sparked an interest in Jensen as many of the products EarthWise offers are natural and may differ from the food people may buy at big box stores. Jensen said those foods aren’t as good or healthy for pets.

“It is eye opening that what we are actually feeding our pets is really bad for them,” Jensen said.

The food itself on the shelves inside of EarthWise Pet won’t be your typical food you see at Walmart or other stores simply because those might not be as healthy as some other brands. Customers may be iffy on new foods but Jensen said they have boxes of free samples.

“It is a lot more nutritious. It’s got more nutrients in it. It is more healthy,” Jensen said.

There will be plenty of items offered at EarthWise Pet aside from the food and toys potential customers can expect at the new store. Jensen is also working on his pet nutritionist license so he can help people with their pet’s diet if they need it.

“I am getting close to my license on pet nutrition,” Jensen said.  “We can find a line of food that works for them or a certain brand.”

In the future, the store will also host events where people can bring their pets in, as EarthWise is a pet friendly store, and take part in various activities. Jensen said they plan to offer things like different exercises for dogs to complete.

“We will have a lot of events as well. So monthly, weekend events where maybe we will have a couple puzzles out,” Jensen said.

While the store opens in December, some things won’t quite be ready yet. A groomer is scheduled to offer services in the future. In the meantime, there will be a pet washing station complete with shampoo and an air dryer for your pet.

“Beginning of January, we are going to have a groomer come on board,” Jensen said. “Pretty much all of your pet needs can be in one spot.”

The Dec. 6 opening is more of a soft-opening for the store to allow customers to become familiar with what the business has to offer. Jensen said the plan is to host more of a grand opening celebration in the spring.

“In March when it gets a little nicer out we will have more of a grand opening,” Jensen said.

The company has its own website newton.earthwisepet.com and a Facebook page for customers to visit. There has been some anticipation on the Facebook page as commenters are excited for the opening of the store and the look of the it on the square at 103 W. Second St. N.

“Come give us a try, check us out. Maybe you’ll find something you like,” Jensen said.

Contact Dustin Teays at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or dteays@newtondailynews.com